Cities and Towns in Sawyer County, Wisconsin
Founded in 1883, Sawyer County is one of 72 counties in the state of Wisconsin. Historically, Sawyer County was formed from Ashland and Chippewa Counties. The city of Hayward is the county seat. With FIPS code of 113, Sawyer County has a population of 18,295 and area of 1,257.31 square miles (3,256 km²).
List of all cities in Sawyer County, WI alphabetically
- Couderay, WI
- Edgewater, WI
- Exeland, WI
- Hayward, WI
- Ojibwa, WI
- Radisson, WI
- Stone Lake, WI
- Winter, WI
Major Cities and Towns in Sawyer County, Wisconsin
1. Hayward
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 3.40 square miles
- Population: 2,316 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 54843
- Latitude: 46.0130° N
- Longitude: 91.4849° W
Location and History
Hayward is the county seat and largest city in Sawyer County, located in northwestern Wisconsin. The city was founded in the late 19th century during the logging boom and was named after Anthony Judson Hayward, a lumber baron who played a key role in its establishment. Hayward grew rapidly as a center for the timber industry, with its location on the Namekagon River providing an essential route for transporting logs. As the logging industry declined, Hayward transitioned into a popular tourist destination, known for its pristine lakes, forests, and outdoor recreational activities. The city is particularly famous for hosting the American Birkebeiner, the largest cross-country ski race in North America.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Hayward is served by the Hayward Community School District, which includes Hayward High School, Middle School, and Intermediate School. Major landmarks include the Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame, which features a giant fiberglass muskie that visitors can climb, offering panoramic views of the area. The Lumberjack Bowl, where the annual Lumberjack World Championships are held, celebrates the city’s logging heritage. Hayward also boasts several parks, including the Hayward City Beach on Lake Hayward, which provides opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing. The city’s vibrant downtown area features unique shops, restaurants, and galleries, reflecting Hayward’s blend of historical charm and modern amenities.
2. Winter
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.26 square miles
- Population: 233 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 54896
- Latitude: 45.8266° N
- Longitude: 91.0051° W
Location and History
Winter is a small village located in the southeastern part of Sawyer County, near the Flambeau River. The village was established in the early 20th century and was named after John Winter, an early settler who played a significant role in its development. Winter was originally a logging community, benefiting from the vast forests in the area and the river’s ability to transport logs. As the logging industry declined, Winter transitioned to a more agriculture-based economy, with dairy farming becoming prominent. Today, Winter is known for its quiet, rural atmosphere and proximity to outdoor recreational activities, particularly hunting, fishing, and snowmobiling.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Winter is served by the Winter School District, which includes Winter High School and Winter Elementary School. Major landmarks include the Tuscobia State Trail, a multi-use trail that runs through the village and offers opportunities for snowmobiling, ATV riding, hiking, and biking. The nearby Flambeau River State Forest provides additional outdoor activities, including camping, canoeing, and wildlife observation. Winter hosts the annual Winterfest, celebrating the community with parades, games, and family-friendly events. The village’s location near several lakes and rivers makes it a popular destination for anglers and nature enthusiasts, contributing to its reputation as a serene getaway in the Northwoods.
3. Radisson
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.35 square miles
- Population: 229 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 54867
- Latitude: 45.7664° N
- Longitude: 91.2274° W
Location and History
Radisson is a small village located in the eastern part of Sawyer County, along the Couderay River. The village was founded in the late 19th century and was named after the French explorer Pierre-Esprit Radisson, who explored the Great Lakes region in the 17th century. Radisson developed as a logging and farming community, with the river providing a natural route for transporting timber. The village has retained its rural character, with agriculture and small-scale industry playing important roles in the local economy. Radisson’s location in the heart of the Northwoods makes it a gateway to numerous outdoor recreational opportunities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Radisson is part of the Winter School District, with students attending schools in nearby Winter. Major landmarks include the Radisson Flowage, a popular spot for fishing, boating, and bird-watching, and the Couderay River, which offers opportunities for canoeing and kayaking. The village park provides a space for community events and gatherings, including the annual Radisson Harvest Fest, which celebrates the local farming heritage with activities for all ages. The surrounding forests and waterways offer ample opportunities for hunting, hiking, and snowmobiling, making Radisson an attractive destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a quiet retreat in the Wisconsin wilderness.
4. Exeland
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.01 square miles
- Population: 187 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 54835
- Latitude: 45.6911° N
- Longitude: 91.2381° W
Location and History
Exeland is a small village located in the southeastern part of Sawyer County. The village was established in the early 20th century as a logging and farming community. Exeland was named after a local sawmill owner who played a key role in its founding. The village grew slowly, maintaining its rural and agricultural roots. Exeland’s location near several lakes and forests has made it a popular destination for outdoor activities, particularly hunting, fishing, and snowmobiling. The village has a close-knit community and a strong sense of local identity, with a focus on preserving its natural surroundings.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Exeland is part of the Bruce School District, with students attending schools in nearby Bruce. Major landmarks include the Weirgor Springs Wildlife Area, which offers opportunities for hiking, bird-watching, and hunting. The village park hosts community events and provides recreational facilities for residents and visitors. Exeland is also home to the annual Exeland Trout Fest, celebrating the area’s rich fishing tradition with a trout-fishing contest, parades, and various family-friendly activities. The nearby Flambeau River provides additional opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and enjoying the scenic beauty of the Northwoods, making Exeland a peaceful and attractive destination for those who love the outdoors.
5. Couderay
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.02 square miles
- Population: 88 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 54828
- Latitude: 45.7969° N
- Longitude: 91.2984° W
Location and History
Couderay is a small village located in the eastern part of Sawyer County, along the Couderay River. The village was established in the early 20th century, with its name derived from the French words “Coude Ré,” meaning “bent river,” describing the shape of the nearby river. Couderay developed as a logging community, with the river providing a means for transporting timber. The village later became known for its proximity to the famous hideout of gangster Al Capone, who owned a lodge in the area during the Prohibition era. Today, Couderay is a quiet rural community, known for its natural beauty and historical significance.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Couderay is part of the Winter School District, with students attending schools in nearby Winter. Major landmarks include the Hideout Museum, located at the former site of Al Capone’s lodge, which offers tours and exhibits on the notorious gangster’s time in the area. The Couderay River provides opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and enjoying the scenic surroundings. The village park hosts community events and offers a space for outdoor activities. Couderay’s history, combined with its location in the Northwoods, makes it an intriguing destination for visitors interested in both natural beauty and the area’s colorful past.
6. Birchwood
Area, Population, Zip Codes, Latitude, and Longitude
- Area: 1.22 square miles
- Population: 442 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 54817
- Latitude: 45.6441° N
- Longitude: 91.5529° W
Location and History
Birchwood is a small village located on the border between Sawyer and Washburn counties, known as the “Bluegill Capital of Wisconsin.” The village was established in the late 19th century and developed as a logging and farming community. Birchwood’s name reflects the abundance of birch trees in the area. Over time, the village became a popular destination for fishing, particularly for bluegill, and outdoor recreation, with its many lakes and forests attracting visitors year-round. Birchwood has maintained its small-town charm, with a strong focus on community and preserving its natural environment.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Birchwood is part of the Birchwood School District, which includes Birchwood High School and Birchwood Elementary School. Major landmarks include Birch Lake and the surrounding parks, which offer opportunities for fishing, boating, and camping. The village is also home to the annual Birchwood Bluegill Festival, a celebration of the village’s fishing heritage, featuring parades, fishing contests, and other community activities. The nearby Ice Age National Scenic Trail provides additional opportunities for hiking and exploring the region’s unique geological features. Birchwood’s location amidst numerous lakes and forests makes it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful retreat in Wisconsin’s Northwoods.